The Canterbury Tales

Definition

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century, considered one of the greatest works of Middle English literature. It features a diverse group of characters who embark on a pilgrimage to the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury, each telling their own tale along the way. This work reflects the social, political, and cultural dynamics of medieval England and showcases Chaucer's keen observations of human nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Canterbury Tales was written in Middle English, which makes it one of the first major works in this language and a bridge between Old English and Modern English.
2. Chaucer uses a variety of literary genres in the tales, including romance, fabliau, and allegory, reflecting the complexity of medieval society.
3. The work consists of 24 stories, though it was originally intended to have more; only some of them were completed before Chaucer's death.
4. Chaucer’s characters come from all walks of life, representing different social classes, occupations, and perspectives, which adds depth to the portrayal of 14th-century England.
5. The prologue serves as an introduction to the characters and sets up the storytelling contest among the pilgrims, highlighting their unique traits and motivations.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer's use of diverse characters in The Canterbury Tales enhance the themes presented in the stories?
  • Chaucer's use of diverse characters allows for a rich exploration of themes such as class structure, morality, and human nature. Each character's background influences their tale and perspective, providing insights into different social classes and life experiences during medieval England. This diversity helps readers understand the complexities of society at that time and invites them to reflect on broader human experiences.
• In what ways does The Canterbury Tales exemplify the literary technique of frame narrative, and what effect does this have on the overall structure of the work?
  • The Canterbury Tales exemplifies frame narrative through its structure where a group of pilgrims tells stories while traveling to Canterbury. This technique allows Chaucer to interweave multiple narratives that reflect different voices and viewpoints. It creates a dynamic reading experience where each tale complements or contrasts with others, enhancing the overall exploration of societal issues and human behavior.
• Critically analyze how Chaucer’s portrayal of social classes in The Canterbury Tales reflects the socio-political landscape of 14th-century England.
  • Chaucer’s portrayal of social classes in The Canterbury Tales reveals the complexities and tensions within 14th-century English society. By featuring characters from various backgrounds—such as nobility, clergy, and commoners—Chaucer highlights class distinctions while also emphasizing shared human experiences. His satirical approach critiques social norms and exposes hypocrisy within these classes, encouraging readers to question established hierarchies and consider the impact of social structures on individual lives during this turbulent period.

Related terms

Pilgrimage: A journey to a sacred place or shrine for religious purposes, which serves as the backdrop for the stories in The Canterbury Tales.

Frame Narrative: A storytelling technique where a main story provides a structure for a series of shorter stories, as seen in The Canterbury Tales.

Chaucerian Satire: A literary technique used by Chaucer to critique and mock societal norms and individual behaviors through humor and irony in his tales.